Mount Desert Island, is the largest island off the Down East coast of Maine, always referred to by the locals in Hancock County simply as “The Island.”

French explorer Samuel de Champlain’s observation that the summits of the island’s mountains were free of vegetation as seen from the sea led him to call the island “île des Monts Déserts”, or Island of the Bare Mountains.

There are four towns on Mount Desert Island with beautiful seashore views for visitors to enjoy. The Island is crowded with visitors during the summer months, but seniors can still find solitude by taking one the Island’s famed hiking trails. Shore Path is an enjoyable walk along the ocean next to Bar Harbor.Summer visitors discover that each of the villages has its own unique flavor and attractions.

Seniors Find Crown Jewel In Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor is the largest town, but Southwest Harbor and Bass Harbor on the southwestern end affords senior visitors with both a quieter and more affordable stay. Frenchman Bay, named for Samuel de Champlain, the French explorer who visited the area in 1604, is a popular aquatic scene.

Acadia National Park—one of the most popular parks in the United States—is Mount Desert Island’s crown jewel: some 40,000 acres of mountains, river valleys, glacial lakes, bluffs, and beaches. Mount Desert Island is rich in geological history dating back to approximately 550 million years.

The island has a year-round population of 10,500+, although it is roughly estimated that two and a half million tourists a year visit Acadia National Park.

Seniors May Run Into Some Notables

The island is home to numerous well-known summer colonies such as Northeast Harbor and Bar Harbor. A few of current notable summer residents include George Mitchell, Tim Robbins, David Rockefeller, Susan Sarandon, and Martha Stewart. Nature abounds as do scenic views in every direction.

Mount Desert Island has a rich history, established culture and thriving economy separate from Acadia National Park. The island has a population that swells every summer.

Senior travelers will not want to miss the fantastic drive along the 27-mile Park Loop Road and then perhaps hike one of the great trails. Enjoy your time on Mount Desert Island. Perhaps I will see you there. -jeb